Marlon Jones, a 6-foot-8 200 pound class of 2014 power forward prospect from Orr HS in Chicago, IL, has had to deal with some adversity recently when it comes to basketball. Jones was required to sit out all of his sophomore season at Orr after he transferred from Crane HS in Chicago, which cost him the opportunity to be evaluated by scouts and coaches.

This summer Jones was forced to switch AAU teams when the team he was playing for disbanded in the middle of the season. Jones also had to miss the prestigious Nike Elite 100 in St. Louis when his ride fell through at the last minute. Jones' fortunes on the hardwood have started to turn around recently, though.

"I was playing for Chicago Magic," said Jones. "Then they ran out of money so we were all looking for other teams to play on. I was able to join up with Meanstreets, which is a really good AAU program, so I guess it worked out okay for me."

Even while playing for the Chicago Magic Jones' fortunes had started to turn. He drew the attention of scouts and coaches earlier this summer with his play which has led to colleges from all across the country getting in contact with Jones.

"I've been hearing the most from Illinois, DePaul, and Vandy, but I've also been in contact with Mizzou, Purdue, and Providence" Jones said. "My coach told me Providence and Purdue have offered."

Jones has already visited Illinois and has planned visits to Providence and Vanderbilt, but another school stands out above all the others.

"I really like Mizzou the best," said Jones. "I think I would really fit in well with their style of play. I feel like I'm skilled big man who could play either one of the post positions. If Mizzou were to offer there is a good chance that I would commit."

Jones has talked with the Tigers coaching staff within the last couple of weeks and would like to take a visit to Mizzou sometime soon. Like most basketball prospects, though, he is having to schedule around a very busy summer.

Jones, who was recently ranked as the #9 player in Illinois for the class of 2014 by OrangeandBlueNews.com plans to finish his summer strong despite the earlier setbacks in the hopes that he can increase his list of offers. None of that will matter, though, if he gets the offer he really wants.

Nobody covers the Tigers like PowerMizzou.com. If you are not yet a member, just try out our free trial.